CITY SPOTLIGHT:

Your Guide to Medford, Oregon

lake in Medford

Know Before You Go: About Medford

Learn more about the Medford area's sunny weather, natural wonders and awesome activities.

"Row, row, row your boat," never looked like this before! Medford, Oregon draws people from all over to raft and fish the cleanest, fastest rivers in the country, as does its natural beauty. Its sunny weather and ideal location—within shouting distance of Oregon's most famous sightseeing wonders—ensure that Medford sits high on your family's list of favorite getaway spots, so pack your things and plan for a memorable getaway in the great outdoors of Oregon.

It Never Rains in Southern Oregon

Medford's sunny, warm climate will please you. The town sits in the Rogue Valley between the Cascade Range and the Siskiyou Mountains, so much of the rain normally hitting the Pacific Northwest skips Medford. Count on about 200 days of clear skies and only 19 inches of rain every year. The town's climate is Mediterranean, with summer temperatures topping out around 90 degrees and winter temperatures dipping to just below freezing.

Outside Fun and Inside Delight

Salmon, steelhead and trout—oh, my! Toss your line into the upper Rogue River—or any one of dozens of lakes and reservoirs in the area—to get that adrenaline rush. Ogle the crystal water of famous Crater Lake, or explore the dark wonders of the Oregon Caves, both close enough to Medford for day trips. World-class theater beckons at Ashland (also home to the Shakespeare Festival), 15 minutes south, or take in jazz at the renowned Britt Festival. And don't let your family leave the area without touring the wineries.

Health Care Fuels the Economy

Thanks to its location, Medford is the economic center for Southern Oregon and Northern California. The city's two major medical centers are its biggest employers, but assisted living and senior services are also important to the economy. Agriculture—largely pear orchards—plays a role as well, and it's also the home of Bear Creek Corporation, known internationally for its fruit-laden gift baskets.

Car Required

Your family will have no trouble at all meeting up at Medford. You can fly into the Rogue Valley-International Medford Airport, or if you're on the West Coast, speed up super-freeway Highway 5 and take one of the town's two exits. But don't count on taking public transportation to get around. The bus system simply doesn't run enough buses to get you where you want to go quickly, and you won't waste time waiting if you have a rented car. Look for car rental agencies at the airport.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in Medford.

Things to Do in Medford

There's no shortage of outdoor adventure in southern Oregon. But, there's even more to explore here.